Canadian Pacific Kansas City Invests in Hydrogen-Powered Locomotives with Ballard Power Systems
Key Ideas
  • Canadian Pacific Kansas City purchases 98 new 200-kW fuel cell engine modules from Ballard Power Systems for hydrogen-powered locomotives in Alberta, with delivery set for 2025.
  • The total power of the fuel cell engines amounts to approximately 20 megawatts, contributing to CPKC's hydrogen locomotive program and decarbonization efforts.
  • Ballard Power Systems and CPKC strengthen their strategic relationship through a 'Long Term Supply Agreement' (LSTA) to replace diesel engines with hydrogen fuel cells for environmental benefits and operational advantages.
  • Following successful integration of Ballard's fuel cell engines, CPKC now operates three hydrogen locomotives in Alberta, Canada, showcasing the potential for decarbonization in the North American freight rail market.
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) has made a significant investment in hydrogen-powered locomotives by purchasing 98 new 200-kW fuel cell engine modules from Ballard Power Systems. These engines are intended for use in Alberta, Canada, with delivery expected in 2025. With a combined power of about 20 megawatts, the fuel cell engines will play a key role in CPKC's hydrogen locomotive program as part of their decarbonization strategy. The purchase is part of a 'Long Term Supply Agreement' between Ballard Power Systems and CPKC, emphasizing their commitment to transitioning from diesel engines to hydrogen fuel cells. Randy MacEwen, President and CEO of Ballard Power, expressed excitement about the partnership and highlighted the benefits of hydrogen fuel cells, such as environmental sustainability, long range, fast refueling, heavy payloads, and efficient operation in cold weather. Previous collaborations between the two companies have already resulted in the successful integration of Ballard's fuel cell engines into CPKC's hydrogen-powered locomotives in Alberta. CPKC has conducted tests on these locomotives, incorporating hydrogen fuel cells, storage, and battery packs, with notable success. Currently, the company operates three hydrogen locomotives, showcasing the feasibility and advantages of hydrogen technology in the freight rail market. The new order of fuel cell engines marks a significant step towards CPKC's vision of decarbonization and underscores their confidence in hydrogen as a viable long-term alternative to traditional diesel engines for a more sustainable future.
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